With dog ownership increasing during the pandemic, and the pets being welcomed into more public spaces like cafes, experts say families with a child who experiences cynophobia can find day-to-day activities stressful.
An emergency warning is active for a fire burning in in the southern part of Dalyellup, in Western Australia. Keep up to date withA few years later, he was jumping on a neighbour's trampoline when their dog "launched" and bit him on the back — and wouldn't let go.
Like for Josh, Mr Berrick says the most common reason someone develops a phobia of dogs is through a negative experience, but it doesn't necessarily mean they were attacked. People growing up in a family or cultural environment where there is either a wariness or lack of exposure to dogs can also lead to a phobia.
"Many dogs are sensitive to loud noises and screaming can trigger a fear or anxiety response, contributing to a negative association with young children.She says scared children may stare at dogs with "wide eyes", which can be perceived as threatening.